Guide to Bassoon Reeds

Our bassoon reeds are all hand-made by professionals. The color identifies the reed-maker. Students should ask their teacher for a recommendation about particular reeds. Professional players may want to try each type to see which best suits their needs.

Student reeds


Purple: This reed is hand-made and is suitable for beginners. It has a pleasant tone, stable pitch, and is very free-blowing. Available in MS, M, or MH.

Black: This reed is hand-made and is suitable for beginning and intermediate players. It has an agreeable tone, easy response, and consistent pitch. Available in MS, M, or MH.

Professional reeds


White: This is a hand-made professional reed, with a beautiful tone in all registers, steady pitch, and uniform response. It’s made with a Rieger shape. Available in MS, M, or MH.

Multi: This is a hand-made professional reed, with an appealing tone, reliable response, and good intonation. Available in MS, M, or MH.

Red: This is a hand-made professional reed, with a rich tone, secure pitch, and clear response. Available in M or MH.

Synthetic reeds


Légère: This reed is made of synthetic material and is very durable, lasting longer than cane reeds. It requires no pre-moistening and is not affected by weather. This reed has a warm sound and is consistent and reliable. Available in M or MH.

Blanks


Black: This is a hand-made, partially scraped reed. Ideal for players who want to save some time with their reed-making but still have the ability to customize their own reeds. The reed needs to be clipped and finished.